2009 some great news on the water project...

We have some great news from the water project...

  • The government has donated over $100,000 in piping.  So we have begun construction to bring water to the first 100 families in El Rosario.  See pics from construction here.
  • Engineers Without Borders is partnering with us to build a tank and give technical assistance.  They had a great trip down last month to plan.  Read the story here.
  • The Southern California District of the Assemblies of God have taken on the project for 2009 as their women's ministry's "Project Hope."  See the video intro below..

New in 08

Las Delicias Water Project...moving ahead in 2008

IMG_6944.JPGWe met with the community leaders Saturday (January 12th) and began working through a fundraising plan for the completion of the project.  We've calculated that we need $1.2 million to finish.  ENLACE will continue to fundraise for the project (we were able to raise $200K over the Christmas holiday because of a donor challenge).  We've estimated that the work will take 2 years to finish once we start, but the community does not want to wait to start the next stage. In the month of February they plan to do a survey of 1200-1500 families to see how much each family can pay towards the project.  They hope to raise between $200K-$400K themselves.  So we hope to begin the next phase in the March where we will start cutting, digging, and laying the first of 33 kilometers of piping.  We'll keep you updated with photos of the construction.

50/50...it's a great idea

Last month I spoke at Cornerstone Church in Simi Valley.  It was a great experience, and I really enjoyed getting to know the church and their vision.  In 2007 this church reached their goal of giving 50% of their income out towards missions, church planting, and ministry to the poor.  This equated to a rough total of $4 million.  This is not only incredible when compared to the national average (2-5% * www.emptytomb.org ),  but has done amazing things in their body as they've gained a vision of what it means to live as a disciple of Christ with their resources.  You can hear Francis' sermon explaining their vision earlier this year by going to their website  www.cornerstonesimi.com and looking for the sermon named "I'm in Love, Part II" under the media and sermon section. 

MA Siss Story...A Church in a Chop Shop

1198298488_0377.jpgI just read this story about an amazing church started in a rough area in Massachusetts. "MA Siss" started a church by purchasing an old chop shop and starting a thrift store.  As a result, she and a group of believers are changing their neighborhood as they reach out to serve the least.  The Boston Globe did an incredible job covering this story with plenty of photos and videos.  Go here

One year anniversery...

abelines2008jan-116.jpgIf you can believe it this week will mark one year since the shooting in Abelines (Jan 18th).  I can't say enough how much God has done to restore me, our family, and use this event to encourage many to trust in God's love (to hear me share the testimony visit here see media/sermon/"the cost of missional living").  Our first mission team of the year ventured up to Abelines last week to provide medical and dental care to hundreds.  One dentist pulled over 180 rotten teeth.  I wasn't able to join them because we were in the U.S., but I heard nothing but incredible stories of how the church continues to serve and transform their community through Christ.  This year they will work to train three surrounding churches along with all the initiatives they have planned.  See more great pics (these are incredible!) taken by David Mcgee (another ENLACE missionary) of last weeks trip. Go here.

Enjoying some new music

 

300.jpgLast month Dara and I got a chance to visit Cornerstone church in Simi valley.  Lisa Chan (Francis' better half)has just released a new album (ENDLESS BEAUTY) with all the proceeds going towards feeding the poor.  We have really enjoyed the album and the message in each song that encourages honesty with the Lord and compassion for others.  I encourage you to take a listen.

check out here

 

 

kennethpeavy.jpgIn college I roomed with a long haired hippy from Georgia who used to sing U2 songs from the top of his lungs in our room.  Mr. Kenny Peavy has since become a close friend and an amazing musician.  He is a singer/songwriter and leads a school of worship for students in the Los Angeles area.  He also released an album of songs (Drawn) written out of his wonderful times with Christ.  It is fantastic and will definitely encourage you in your walk with God.  You can listen to some samples and purchase from i tunes at the following link: itunes DRAWN ALBUM or from CD baby here.